Isla Blanca Park sits at the southern tip of South Padre Island, offering both Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre Bay views. The park maintains over 600 campsites with varying levels of amenities, making it a popular destination for winter visitors seeking warmer coastal temperatures. January through March sees the highest occupancy rates with predominantly RV campers staying for extended periods.
What to do
Beach activities: At Isla Blanca Park, visitors can walk along extensive shorelines and fish from the jetty. "We stayed here a couple nights. Close proximity to the beach with full hookups and close to all the SPI has to offer. Sites are not too close together and an easy walk to the beach," reports Kelly S.
Observe space launches: At Boca Chica Beach, visitors can witness SpaceX activities from a safe distance. The location provides unique viewing opportunities for rocket enthusiasts. "Nice beach to visit, especially to see starship prep activity. Unlikely to be able to camp long term," notes Mark F., suggesting alternative accommodations for launch viewing.
Social activities: Glamping close to Brownsville, Texas often includes organized recreation. "Lots of activities available. Which include shuffle board, horse shoes, billiards, card games five nights a week, live entertainment and country jam weekly, pot lucks and special events," writes Donald N. about Countryside Mobile Home & RV Park.
What campers like
Winter stays: Many glamping accommodations near Brownsville welcome seasonal residents. "We came down for a 2 week vacation and decided to stay 3 months instead! Will definitely be making Isla Blanca our new home for the winter," shares Nick and Allyssa S. about their experience.
Beach maintenance: "Stayed an entire month and loved every single day! Beach area is one of the best and well maintained. Sites are small in certain areas, but others are generous," mentions Ellen A. about Isla Blanca Park's coastal areas.
Less developed coastal areas: D&L RV Park provides a more economical glamping option with basic amenities. "Economical Park. No pool but lots of activities for campers including shuffleboard, horse shoes, cards five nights a week, pool table and country jam on Mondays," explains Donald N., noting the $30 nightly rate and $15 rate with Passport America.
What you should know
Reservation system challenges: The check-in process can be lengthy during peak periods. "We arrived at check-in time and was told to sign in on a waiting list. They called names by yelling out the door. Waited about an hour to finally check in and was told to fill out 3 pages of info," Sarah L. recounts about her Isla Blanca experience.
Environmental considerations: The more remote coastal areas have environmental challenges. "The beach has a lot of debris from river run off and storms. The amount of trash and plastic waste can be overwhelming at times. The campsites are primitive and only include metal trash barrels," Steve and Ashley G. caution about Boca Chica Beach.
Site selection matters: When booking glamping options, research specific site amenities. "I picked a premium site that didn't happen to be very premium. While the location of the site was perfect, all of the sites around me had concrete pads but mine... the online map was showing a finished park with a boardwalk, showers and restrooms right behind my site but it was all still under construction," explains Shane M.
Tips for camping with families
Pack appropriate footwear: Beach areas often contain natural hazards. "The only single complaint is the tiny burrs that are all over the grass area and dunes. They get tracked in and hurt when finding them with bare feet. Our youngest screamed bloody murder the first time walking in flip flops over the grass. Shoes required for most of this park," warns Bret N.
Consider beach accessibility: Some glamping locations offer better beach access than others. "This campground is on the South tip of South Padre Island. You are on the Gulf and also on the inter coastal waterway. You are just a short walk to a beach or fishing," Linda V. notes about Isla Blanca's convenient location.
Look for lifeguarded areas: During summer months, some beaches provide additional safety services. "The sandy beach is huge and great for families. They provide lifeguards during the summer months," mentions Steve and Ashley G. about seasonal safety measures.
Tips from RVers
Site privacy concerns: At Natures Resort Nudist Park, 50 RV sites are available with full hookups including 30 and 50 amp electric service. The resort accommodates big rigs and provides water, sewer, showers, and toilet facilities in a clothing-optional environment approximately 32 miles northwest of Brownsville.
Coastal traffic awareness: Busy periods create congestion in popular glamping destinations. "This park is very crowded on weekends and holidays and reservations for RV sites are highly recommended," cautions Steve and Ashley G., emphasizing the importance of advance planning.
Weather considerations: Winter glamping near Brownsville presents variable conditions. "Windy and hazy in January. We work remote and data service was tough to get," Sarah L. reports, noting connectivity challenges that remote workers should prepare for.
